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Gainsborough and Hednesford stun National League opposition to reach FA Cup first round
Gainsborough Trinity and Hednesford Town ensured there would be three Northern Premier League representatives in the FA Cup first round proper, after producing huge upsets on the road on Tuesday night.
Gainsborough ran out commanding 4-0 winners at Boston United - promoted from the National League North last season - to reach the first round proper for the first time in seven years.
It was a similar story for Step 4 Hednesford, who ended an 11-year wait for a place in the first round proper by toppling last season's FA Trophy winners Gateshead 3-1.
The Pitmen also made history on Tuesday night, becoming just the second team in history to progress from the extra preliminary round to the first round proper on more than one occasion.
Gainsborough scored twice in either half against Boston, Declan Howe bagging a brace and Lewis Butroid and Fraser Preston also adding their names to the scoresheet.
When asked about the performance of his side, manager Russ Wilcox told BBC Radio Lincolnshire: "One word. Incredible.
"We knew how difficult the game was going to be. We spoke before the game about Boston not winning at home [this season], so we knew we needed to keep it tight and stifle them.
"We did that well, and defensively without the ball, we were unbelievable. The best I think we've ever been.
"The lads were so disciplined, but we showed quality as well and the goals were superb.
“I'm so proud of the group, it's an unbelievable achievement. It's a super moment for the football club, and the journey continues.”
At the Gateshead International Stadium, Hednesford found themselves behind early on but fought back to level midway through the first half, courtesy of Jack Bearne.
Then in the second half, a pivotal six-minute spell saw the Pitmen score twice to turn the game on its head, Rob Stevenson and Sion Spence providing the telling contributions.
Tuesday's results also mean that there will be at least one Northern Premier League representative in the second round proper, with Hednesford drawn at home to Gainsborough in the next stage of the competition.
Guiseley, the other Premier Division side to make it through, will visit League One Stevenage.
First round ties will take place between November 1-4, with the winners receiving £45,000 and the losers receiving £15,000.
Photo credit: Darren Murphy
